Assam CM sparks controversy, urges Ajmal to marry before elections amid UCC implementation threats

Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made controversial remarks on Saturday regarding AIUDF’s Dhubri MP Badruddin Ajmal's marital status, sparking a heated debate ahead of the elections.

Sarma suggested that Ajmal should consider marrying again before the upcoming elections, hinting at impending legal consequences under the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) once it's implemented post-election.

Ajmal had previously stated that the BJP's actions were seen as provocative by Muslims, asserting his right to marry multiple times as per his religious beliefs.

Speaking at an election rally in Udalguri, Sarma emphasized that the implementation of UCC would render multiple marriages illegal for all individuals, including Ajmal, and could lead to imprisonment.

The UCC aims to ensure uniform treatment for all citizens, regardless of religious affiliation, covering various aspects such as marriage, divorce, maintenance, inheritance, adoption, and property succession.

Sarma's stance remained firm, stating that he would attend Ajmal's wedding if invited before the elections but emphasized that post-election, the law would apply uniformly to everyone.

In a recent move, the Assam Cabinet had approved the repeal of the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorces Registration Act, 1935, with the aim of combating child marriage and facilitating the transition towards UCC implementation.

Sarma reiterated that Assam was poised to become the third state, following Uttarakhand and Gujarat, to enact legislation for UCC, with provisions to exempt tribal communities.

The chief minister's comments have sparked criticism and debate, with many questioning the timing and implications of such statements in the midst of an election campaign.